Irish Water Spaniel

Breed: Irish Water Spaniel
Temperament: Loyal, active
Cost: $500.00
Lifespan: 12-13 Years
Recommended for: Families who want something different
Dumpage rate: Low
Maintenance: High

History

The Irish Water Spaniel is a breed best known for its distinctive curly coat. Roman ruins show evidence of a similar dog, and the lineage of the breed may include the Portuguese water dogs and spaniel stock from the Iberian peninsula. The breed was developed in Ireland from two strains: the Southern, and the Northern Country Water Spaniel, and today's breed takes after the Southern variety. The dogs were valued for their retrieving abilities and their extreme hardiness in the cold waters of the North Sea. They were first introduced to Australia in 1891. A family companion and a reliable watch dog, the breed has slowly increased in numbers, and presently there are about 200 in Australia.

Appearance

The breed's distinctive dense ringlet curls are a rich dark liver coloured coat. The males have a slightly heavier coat. The dogs have low set, pendant ears and a long mousy tail. Adult males stand 53-58cm (21-23"), and adult females are 51-56cm tall (20-22"). Both sexes have a goatee beard.

Temperament

Irish Water Spaniels are devoted companions, but demand attention. They are boisterous and enjoy outdoor romping. Breeders recommend that owners start obedience training early. The breed can also be aloof with strangers.

Health and Lifespan

A hardy breed, Irish Water Spaniels usually live 12 to 13 years. The instance of hip dysplasia is low - the breed average is 15. (Hip scores are given out of 106 points. A score of over 30 can lead to problems for dogs later in life.) New owners should always ask for the hip score of a breed. They can suffer from entropium (were the eyelids roll inwards, and the hairs irritate the eyeball) but this can be avoided if owners regularly check eyes when grooming. Occasionally, bitches have minor skin or coat problems.

Feeding

Irish Water Spaniels are big eaters, and can be gluttons, given the opportunity. Breeders recommend a balanced diet which might include raw eggs, dry food, ox cheek, raw liver and chicken.

Breeding

The breed has whelping problems, and litters consist of six to eight puppies. Young dogs benefit from early socialisation to their human family.

Grooming

Irish Water Spaniels need regular grooming, at least 30 minutes a week. The oil in the coat repels water but also attracts dust, and has the potential to create enormous matting problems. Loose hair is not shed by the breed so owners must spend time grooming. The hair around the ears, eyes and toenails needs to be checked and trimmed regularly. Brushing may temporarily straighten the coat, but a spray of water or a swim quickly restores the natural curl. Many breeders recommend that pets be clipped, as it can be demanding to keep the animal in show condition.

Costs

There is presently a waiting list for Irish Water Spaniel puppies, which cost about $500 each.

Housepet Potential

Irish Water Spaniels love being inside but are not considered a townhouse dog because of their size. However they can be housetrained and especially enjoy lying on the couch.

Space and Exercise

Irish Water Spaniels can be well mannered inside. They can be kept in a backyard but need at least 30 minutes exercise a day. They also enjoy swimming, and will take to obedience and agility training if introduced to it early.

Ideal Owner

Irish water Spaniels need to be part of an active family with older children. They are not recommended for families with toddlers, very small children or inactive people.

For Further Information

ACT
Canberra Kennel Association
PO Box 815
Dickson, 2602
Phone: (02) 6241 4404

NSW
Breeder: Karen Borg
Phone: (02) 4575 2271

NT
North Australian Canine Association
PO Box 375321
Winnellie 0821
Phone: (08) 8984 3570

QLD
The Canine Control Council (Qld)
PO Box 495
Fortitude Valley 4006
Phone: (07) 3252 2661

SA
South Australian Canine Association
PO Box 844
Prospect East, 5082
Phone: (08) 8349 4797

TAS
Tasmanian Canine Association
PO Box 116
Glenorchy, 7010
Phone: (03) 6272 9443

VIC
Irish Water Spaniel Club of Victoria Inc.
Publicity Officer: Eric Dell
RMB 1576
Dereel, 3352
Phone: (03) 5346 1437

WA
The Canine Association of WA
PO Box 301
Gosnells, 6110
Phone: (08) 9455 1188

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